First World Problems- Friday Rambling- Wk 29

When my kids began using the term “first world problems,” they had to educate me on what it meant. It’s basically a way to bring into perspective some of the issues or concerns we, as a first-world country, can tend to inflate.

Let’s share an example that just happened yesterday (in case this is a new term for anyone). My son opened a new toothbrush and he chose one that is the same color as mine, making it difficult to differentiate between the two when it’s time to brush. I’m annoyed, as there are many colors to choose from because of this very issue. This is a solid, trivial example of what a first world problem entails.

More: The electricity went out last weekend for an hour and a half. Gas prices are high. They didn’t have what I was looking for at the grocery store. Traffic has gotten bad this summer. A customer meeting is interfering with a planned vacation. Etc. and so on…

I sometimes forget the flip side of that. I’ve traveled to what people refer to as “third world” countries. And, I know there is a sensitivity to that terminology and some would deem it offensive, but what isn’t offensive these days?! (That’s a whole other rambling). No disrespect is intended and I mean to define it as: a developing country. (Which, by the way, is also profoundly upsetting to some. Shocking, I know).

After spending time with these beautiful people and witnessing the living conditions and daily dangers in which they and their families lived, I would cry myself to sleep every night.

Not all of these third world countries have the same issues, but here is a small sampling: poverty, starvation, war, lack of education, no health care, corruption. Can you imagine only wanting for a fresh glass of water on a hot day and not having it available to you? Or not able to give your children or family what they need?

There are troubles that run through every life, but I will remember that I have an education, health care, food, shelter… a cool glass of water.

So, while the inane argument continues on what to call countries that are not quite as developed as others, my hope is that the world become a little gentler. People from these countries don’t give a hoot what you call their homeland. They only hope for something better -more humane … more compassionate.

I do, too.

Love you, friends! ❤ Have a wonderful weekend!

“Whether one believes in a religion or not, and whether one believes in rebirth or not, there isn’t anyone who doesn’t appreciate kindness and compassion.” – Dalai Lama

“Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love.” -Lamentations 3:32